Police have announced a R300 000 reward for information that could lead to the arrest of suspects in the murders of three police officers in two separate shootings within 24 hours.
On Friday, 8 August 2025, gunmen ambushed and killed two detectives from the Johannesburg Trio Task Team while they transported awaiting trial prisoner Jabulani Moyo from the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court back to prison.
The suspects disarmed Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa, 51, and Sergeant Simon Masenye, 45, before shooting them.
Moyo was last seen driving the abandoned police vehicle, which police later found several kilometres from the crime scene.
National Commissioner Visits Families
National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola visited the families of the slain detectives on Saturday.
He condemned the murders as a direct attack on the authority of the state and the rule of law.
Masemola revealed that criminals killed 27 police officers in the last financial year and that six officers have already died in the line of duty since 1 April 2025.
“These were not just numbers,” he said. “They were mothers and fathers, breadwinners, and dedicated officers who laid down their lives to protect the people of South Africa.”
Masemola warned that the country could not remain silent while criminals wage war on the state.
He urged police officers to act decisively when necessary, always applying force proportional to the threat.
“Do not let your guard down,” he said. “Be a step ahead of these criminals to ensure the safety and security of the public.”
Hawks Lead Investigation
The Hawks are leading the investigation into the detectives’ murders.
Masemola said investigators are analysing witness statements and evidence from a filling station where the shootings took place.
He confirmed that a multidisciplinary team, led by crime intelligence, is searching for Moyo.
Masemola said investigators are probing whether Moyo was handcuffed during transport and why officers used a sedan instead of a police van.
“Our focus remains on finding Moyo,” he said. “He has answers we need, and we will not rest until we find him.”
Two Rewards Announced
Police are offering two separate R150 000 cash rewards, one for information leading to Moyo’s arrest and another for the capture of at least 10 suspects involved in the murder of 47-year-old Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni.
Gunmen killed Mtshweni while he and other officers responded to a business burglary in Schoemansdal.
Masemola warned the public not to approach Moyo, describing him as “very dangerous” and having “no regard for life.”
Appeal to Police Safety
Masemola urged officers to apply the police safety strategy, ensure their firearms are in good working order, and carry all necessary tools for their duties.
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